Circular Letter No. 70

October 1969

Dear Reno Sirrine and Khanna Ji;

Mr. Reno Sirrine recently requested guidance on the matter of the duty of young men who are eligible under the law of their country for service in the armed forces. As many of the dear ones have written to me requesting further clarification on the brief Circular that Mr. Sirrine issued on the letter that was sent to him on this subject, I hope that the following will clear up any doubts that they may have:

As already mentioned, every citizen has an obligation towards the country in which he is born. If that country is threatened by an invader, then it is the duty of every man and woman, in accordance with their mental and physical abilities, to protect the innocent people of their country. For example, one could render service in a non-combatant arm of the army such as the Medical Corps, whose primary duty is to relieve the suffering of the wounded and the like.

If a government orders a general conscription for any cause of all able-bodied men to the armed forces, there is little that can be done. If, however, one can honestly be excused from military service because of a physical disability or other valid reason, then by all means this may be done.

All Saints and Masters have greatly deprecated not only wars, but all forms of violence that bring suffering to mankind. These conditions are brought about by men himself, who, in this ignorance that God resides in every heart, will not allow his fellow man to live in freedom and peace.

All the dear ones who are obliged to fulfill their duty to their country, should have full faith and courage in the gracious protection and guidance being extended to them by the Master Power working overhead.

With all love and best wishes,
Yours affectionately,

Kirpal Singh